Sikkim's home-grown pepper ''Dalle Khursani'' gets GI tag

The GI tags are indications that identify a particular product to a territory from where it derives a specific quality or reputation. Once a product is given a GI tag, other parties who are not associated with that geographical area will be restrained from using the same Geographical Indication for their products. The amount of heat in chilies is measured in Scoville Heat Unit (SHU). Dalle Khursani has a range of 1,00,000 to 3,50,000 SHU which makes it one of the hottest chilies in the world.

Dalle Khursani which belongs to the family of Solanaceae and genus Capsicum is famous for its unique and high pungency. These grow up to 100-130 cm height in an open field and 150-180 cm height in greenhouse conditions. The peppers are added to sauce, pickles, and pastes to increase their pungency and flavor.

Also known for its medicinal properties, Dalle Khursani is rich in Vitamin A, E, C, and Potassium while low on Sodium.

"With GI, the crop will have global recognition and the marketing of the product will be beyond the national borders." said Sikkim Horticulture Department's Secretary, Mr. M.T. Sherpa.  

Earlier, an application was filed by Guwahati-based North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation (NERAMAC) Limited for the GI tag of this rare and spicy peppers and has been accepted by the DPIIT.

Another pepper called 'Bhut Jolokia' grown in the neighboring states of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Assam, and Nagaland has a SHU range of 8,55,000 to 10,41,427.

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